Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to frequently asked questions of the Department of Senior Affairs.

1. What resources are available for a senior who needs help with daily tasks?

Non-medical homecare services are available for residents aged 60 and older with limited incomes who need assistance with daily tasks such as housekeeping, personal care, or errands. Call 505-764-6400 to check your eligibility.

2. How can I request help with home repairs or modifications?

The Home Services program provides help with tasks like installing ramps or safety railings for seniors aged 60+ in Albuquerque/Bernalillo County. For more information and eligibility, call 505-764-6400 or visit the Home Services page.

3. How can I request help with yard work or outdoor maintenance?

Seasonal yard work assistance (Spring/Fall) is available to Albuquerque/Bernalillo County residents ages 60 and over for safety-related purposes only, such as addressing code enforcement issues. Each household may request help once per calendar year by calling 505-764-6400. Visit the Home Services page to learn more.

4. Who can I contact for help with rolling my trash container to the curb?

If you are unable to roll your trash container to the curb due to physical limitations, contact the Department of Solid Waste at 505-761-8138 for assistance.

5. How can I get help with starting up or shutting down a heating/cooling system?

Seasonal assistance (Spring/Fall) with starting up or shutting down heating and cooling systems is available for Albuquerque/Bernalillo County residents ages and over. Limited slots are available. Call 505-764-6400 or visit the Home Services page to learn more.

6. Where can I find assistance or help paying for utilities?

For help with paying for utilities or accessing utility assistance programs, contact the Department of Health, Housing, and Homelessness at 505-768-4357.

7. How can I get help with legal issues, such as wills or power of attorney?

Adults ages 60 and over can receive free legal services for matters like wills, power of attorney, and estate planning from the Senior Citizens Law Office. Call 505-265-2300 for more information.

8. Where can I find information about senior housing options?

If you need information about senior housing options, contact the Department of Health, Housing, and Homelessness at 505-768-4357.

9. Is there a directory of local services for seniors?

A Quick Guide to Senior Services is available for seniors and caregivers. You can download it online or call 505-764-6400 for assistance.

10. How can I sign up for home delivered meals?

Free or donation-based home-delivered meals are available to eligible residents ages 60 and over who cannot cook or attend meal sites. Call 505-764-6400 for assistance.

11. What services are available for transportation to medical appointments?

Shared rides to medical appointments are available for Albuquerque/Bernalillo County residents ages 60 and over. Reservations must be made 7 days in advance by calling 505-764-6464. No third-party requests will be accepted (i.e. requests on behalf of others).

12. How do I schedule a ride for a non-medical errand?

Albuquerque/Bernalillo County residents ages 60 and over can request shared rides for errands, such as grocery shopping. Reservations must be made 3 days in advance by calling 505-764-6464.

13. How do I get a ride to a City of Albuquerque senior center or senior meal site?

Daily rides (Monday-Friday) are available for Albuquerque/Bernalillo residents ages 60 and over living within a 5-mile radius of any City of Albuquerque senior/multigenerational centers or Bernalillo County meal site. Contact the center directly to register for transport services or call 505-764-6400. See a a list of locations.

14. What types of recreational programs or activities are available for older adults?

A wide variety of activities, including fitness classes, social events, and trips, are available at Albuquerque senior and multigenerational centers. Locate a center near you.

15. What types of recreational programs or activities are available for youth?

Multigenerational centers provide programs and events for youth, including out-of-school learning opportunities. Locate a center near you.

Multigenerational centers also host a variety of family and teen-friendly events. See a list of upcoming events.

16. What types of programs or activities are available for all ages?

Multigenerational centers offer fitness activities, community groups, and special events that are open to participants of all ages. Find out more about programs or activities.

17. Where can I find assistance or help with tax preparation?

Free tax preparation services are available through a partnership with AARP. Check the Senior Affairs website starting in January to locate a nearby assistance site.

18. Where can I get information about Medicare or Medicaid for older adults?

You can learn about Medicare plans and enrollment at annual Medicare Fair events held during open enrollment from October to December. Visit the Events page for details.

19. Do you accept Silver Sneakers memberships?

The Department of Senior Affairs does not currently accept Silver Sneakers memberships at its senior or multigenerational centers.

20. What volunteer opportunities are available with the Department of Senior Affairs?

Volunteers of all ages can sign-up to participate in our Volunteers in Action (VIA) program, while volunteers ages 55 and over are eligible to participate in our trio of AmeriCorps Seniors volunteer programs. Call 505-764-1009 or email [email protected] to sign up. Learn more about volunteer opportunities.

21. Does the Department of Senior Affairs accept donations? How can I donate?

Donations support various senior services and can be made online or at one of our service locations. For more information, visit the Senior Affairs website.